The magazine of VAEX The Truck Traders BUFFL Customizers, and Goverstone. With news you don't want to miss and stories from partners, customers and employees.
Lieve Vrouwe in Uden
THE POWER OF COLLABORATION
Time flies! We have now been co-owners of VAEX The Truck Traders and BUFFL for a year. Together, we lead a dynamic organisation where things move at a fast pace – bringing both opportunities and challenges.
Does it feel different from before?
On one hand, no. We’re still the same people, each with our own strengths.
Pim is a salesperson and a truck expert through and through – the driving force behind the commercial team, always striving for sharp deals and long-term trade relationships, both nationally and internationally.
Sharing the ultimate responsibility feels good – it gives each of us room to let go in some areas while stepping up in others. The occasional heated discussion is part of that, too. But it’s always from a place of mutual respect – which feels even stronger now that it’s officially sealed on paper. The power of collaboration is something we expe-
“Step on the gas and dare to decide!” “ Work smarter, not harder.”
Marjolein focuses on building strong and lasting relationships with employees and external partners every day. She ensures that people enjoy working with and for us while continuously looking for ways to optimise work processes together.
Still, this new structure has brought change.
rience not just among ourselves, but also within our team and with our customers, suppliers and partners. In this magazine, we once again showcase who we are, what we do and who we work with. Because we can never share too often how proud we are of it all!
Pim Govers & Marjolein Waals
“Always around 200 trucks in stock –across all brands and in every price range.”
VAEX The Truck Traders
BUFFL Customizers
We have already found your ideal truck.”
1,742
1,385 298 329 56 vehicles sold used
projects new
€105,000,000
55
Distribution
Experts in
Scandinavia
“We understand how things work there”
Our buyers are active throughout Europe, but even more so in Scandinavia. For the past six months, Norwegian Tom Christian Aasen has been our new on-location colleague. Like buyer Henk, he spends his weekdays on the road in a country known for its vast distances, breathtaking nature and some of the finest trucks.
A trusted partner
Tom Christian previously worked as a fleet manager at a Norwegian transport company. His new role as a buyer at VAEX The Truck Traders suits him well, partly because of the variety it offers.
Tom Christian: “When I set off in the morning, I never know what I’ll come across. Some days, I drive around for hours with no results. Other times, I expect nothing from a visit – and still end up finding interesting vehicles. Being Norwegian gives me an advantage when I sit down with potential sellers, – not just because of the language, but also due to my extensive network in the Norwegian transport sector. I often share a mutual acquaintance with the person I’m speaking to – and that usually leads to a quick deal. Sometimes, I even talk about my previous job, when I regularly sold trucks to Henk. This includes all the advantages experienced back then.”
Quick turnaround on a deal
There are plenty of advantages to working with VAEX The Truck Traders. Henk sums them up: “We don’t just cherry-pick the best deals – we buy a wide range of trucks at fair, realistic prices. And after a deal, suppliers are even happier with us. We handle transactions quickly because we know the process inside out. Selling us a truck today? Then the money will be in your account tomorrow morning, the paperwork will be sorted in no time, and the truck will be picked up that same afternoon. With our own low-loader, we manage transport ourselves and our after-sales service is rock solid. I have a customer whose administrator always says: ‘Please sell to VAEX The Truck Traders – then I know for sure that the payment and paperwork will be taken care of.’ And that’s exactly how it is.”
“Suppliers know they get paid quickly and everything is well organised.”
Always someone nearby
Tom Christian: “I work from Drammen and mainly focus on dealers and transport companies in western Norway. From Monday to Friday, I’m on the road. A funny difference compared to the Netherlands? After 4 pm on a regular workday, there’s no point knocking on doors. And on Fridays, it’s even earlier – by noon, everyone’s already home.” Henk: “My home base is our office in Ravenstein, but I’m often in Norway, Sweden, or Denmark – keeping close communication with our contacts is very important to me. Buyer Pim also travels to Scandinavia regularly, so we’re always well represented.”
Norway specialists
Why does VAEX The Truck Traders call itself a Norway specialist? Henk: “We handle the challenges of doing business in Norway like no one else. Take export documentation, for example – we process it almost daily. Or extreme weather conditions. If a supplier tells
us a truck won’t arrive on time because the road is covered in ice, we get it. In fact, we experience it ourselves. Norwegians live closely connected to nature because it plays such a big role in their daily lives. They appreciate it when you understand that. Instead of stressing over delays, we find a solution –or simply wait until the following week. That’s just the way it is, and you have to accept it.”
Goals for the future
“ We understand the challenges you face in Norway.”
With Tom Christian as our new colleague, we have also sharpened our future goals. Henk: “Of course, we want to purchase even more trucks. But at the moment, that’s not entirely realistic, given our existing customers and the current market shortage. Far fewer new trucks are being sold, which means there are also fewer available for trade-in.” Tom Christian: “That’s why my main goal is to build new connections and expand our trade. There are still plenty of undiscovered opportunities out there, and I’m keen to explore them!” Tom Christian Aasen tom.aasen@thetrucktraders.nl
Henk Brusse henk.brusse@thetrucktraders.nl
“Everything for your truck –all in one place.”
At the table with Kurt Leyseele
It’s not just the trucks that create connections – there’s also a strong match in mindset between VAEX The Truck Traders and the Belgian Transport Leyseele. The result?
A smooth collaboration built on trust.
Hard workers
Over 30 years ago, Kurt Leyseele and his brother Bart took over their father’s transport company. Originally, they specialised in livestock transport, but today, their 26-truck fleet shuttles containers to and from shortsea terminals in Zeebrugge. The brothers are deeply involved in the business – they personally manage planning and workshop operations and still drive routes every day. “It’s important to see what’s happening,” says Kurt. “Not just at our company in Beernem, but also on the road and with customers. That’s why we’re fully hands-on.”
Pim has a lot of admiration for how the Leyseele brothers run their business. “I find it impressive how Kurt and Bart keep their entire fleet running. They are incredibly hard workers, always striving for quality and top-tier equipment. It’s a credit to them. “Their hands-on mentality aligns with our way of working and, I think, stems from our shared connection to the agricultural world.”
Conversely, Kurt is more than satisfied as well. “Doing business with The Truck Traders is always smooth and reliable. The company runs like a well-oiled machine!”
Trust from the beginning
Nowadays, Kurt buys most of his trucks from VAEX The Truck Traders, and once they reach the end of their service at Leyseele, VAEX takes them back.
Pim: “What we sell, we eventually get back. And that’s no issue – Kurt takes good care of his equipment. His trucks are maintained to the highest standards until the very end, making them easy to resell. Other customers know they’re getting a solid vehicle when it comes from Leyseele. The company name stands for quality – and that, to me, is true craftsmanship!”
Always a solution
Of course, there are occasional issues. Several Leyseele trucks feature a BUFFL interior or build, and at times, Kurt wasn’t immediately satisfied. But every issue was resolved quickly, and the partnership with BUFFL continues to this day. Differences of opinion on pricing also arise from time to time.
“We don’t need to spend hours talking about a truck – a deal is made in no time.”
The partnership between VAEX The Truck Traders and Leyseele began about 20 years ago, when buyer Roland first visited the Belgian transport company. “I bought a Scania 530,” said Roland, “and there was an instant connection. I can’t explain why, exactly – sometimes you just have that with people.” For Kurt, it felt the same: “That first deal went smoothly. There was immediate trust on both sides, and that has never changed. Since then, I prefer not to invest my time in other parties.”
Pim: “Kurt knows exactly how things stand. You can't fool him, and negotiations can be tough. Yet we always find common ground because we respect each other and make things work.”
Kurt: “And sometimes, the solution is quite amusing. The last time we disagreed on a price, Pim suggested throwing in a pallet of beer with the truck. That sealed the deal!”
Such a playful gesture says it all about the bond between them. Over the years, their relationship has grown beyond just business. Kurt: “It’s not just about closing the best deals – we’ve also become friends. That kind of trust isn’t something you can buy; it has to grow.”
Pim: “A lot of business is done over the phone, but every so often, I drive to Belgium to catch up – not just about trade, but about life in general. These moments remind me how unique our relationship is – and that the best business happens when it’s built on mutual respect.”
“Granting each other success –That’s very important for both of us.”
Never to forget
Kurt Leyseele: “A memorable moment in our collaboration was when I purchased the new Scania 770 Next Gen. It was, of course, the crème de la crème. Thanks to VAEX The Truck Traders, I was the first in Belgium to drive one. As a true truck enthusiast, really appreciated that – though Scania Belgium was slightly less thrilled about it!”
A strong bond is the foundation for VAEX and De Molen Banden
When you think of Reek, you think of De Molen Banden – a household name in the region and for VAEX for almost 70 years. The building behind the historic white mill has been the go-to place for repairs and service for VAEX trucks since the very beginning. It’s also where Pim enjoys catching up over coffee with location manager Ronnie.
“The Govers trucks always had priority.”
Ronnie (left) and Pim (right)
Back in time
De Molen Banden started in 1958 as a petrol station run by the Arts brothers, where tyre changes were occasionally part of the service. That service soon expanded into an independent business, and by 1970, it had its own premises behind the petrol station. This turned out to be perfect timing for Toon and Leo Govers, who launched their pig trading business from Reek in 1971. Their father, Piet Govers, had already been a regular customer – a ledger from 1966 contains invoices for tyres for the truck he used to transport his animals to the livestock market. In short: the relationship between the Govers family, VAEX, and De Molen Banden goes back a long way.
“We're both customer-focused –not customersubmissive.”
the very beginning. “They would roll in with a full load of pigs and always had a bit of an advantage. Even if two other trucks were already waiting, the Govers drivers were helped immediately because they needed to get back on the road as fast as possible. Sometimes, Toon Govers would check if the work was moving quickly enough. “Step on it!” he’d say. Then the mechanics would go full throttle – a pit stop by Verstappen was nothing in comparison!”
Location manager Ronnie van der Pas has also been part of this story for quite some time. He joined De Molen Banden in 1989 and remembers the Govers trucks from
Service as the key to success Pim looks back on the '90s, when he became co-owner of VAEX: “Our trucks were big, heavy and covered a lot of fast miles. Good tyres were crucial – we never skimped on them. Sometimes, I’d suddenly feel like we were paying too much. I’d check with other suppliers, and they’d offer me better deals. But over the years, I realised that service matters just as much. At De Molen, we can
always count on them and they’re always ready to help find solutions. That relationship is incredibly valuable. Once I understood that, it was no longer about the price.”
“Service and flexibility – those are the values that define De Molen Banden,” nods Ronnie. “There are probably companies with more structure, but our strength is that we adapt to our customers. One way or another, we always find a solution.” Pim confirms that: “You can buy tyres anywhere. The difference is in the service – the way you treat your customers. No matter which driver comes in, they’re treated with respect. You don’t have to be a director to be treated well. And I can just keep my clogs on.”
Looking to the future
Both companies have developed significantly over the years. De Molen Banden was taken over by Hein Timmers in 2002, and he now runs the company alongside his four sons. In addition to their branch in Reek, they manage two more locations in Son and Zaandam, and in July 2024, they acquired Corlange Banden from Veghel.
Ronnie: “With that acquisition, we gained six new experienced employees, allowing us to continue delivering top-quality service. In that sense, we’re similar to VAEX The Truck Traders – everyone gets the help they need, in our own distinctive way. Not out of arrogance, but because we trust in our own strength and expertise.”
VAEX The Truck Traders has also grown and expanded, but in recent years, the number of its own trucks has decreased. Yet, vehicles still travel weekly from Ravenstein to Reek – whether it's company truck transporters or trade vehicles needing tyre replacements. Additionally, buyers occasionally purchase batches of tyres while on the road, which are then sent to De Molen. So, this longstanding partnership isn’t ending anytime soon. Quite the opposite, if Pim has anything to do with it. “Truck trading and tyre services go hand in hand – they are closely connected and naturally complement each other. It would be great if we could strengthen our collaboration even further in the future because our industry and mindset align perfectly.”
You can’t drive on a flat tyre – that makes our partnership with De Molen Banden crucial.
“ We don’t do ‘no’ – challenges exist to be overcome.”
Starting a hotel? Bring it on!
Always looking for new opportunities
In July 2024, Pim Govers and Marjolein Waals embarked on an exciting new project. Together with Saskia Govers, they purchased Villa Lieve Vrouwe – a historic building in the heart of Uden. Now, plans are in full swing to transform it into a charming boutique hotel.
The ideal hotel
Trucks and hotels have more in common than you might think. For Pim, buying and selling trucks means spending several nights a month in hotels abroad, each with its own unique character. Pim: “Travelling has given me a clear view of what makes a good hotel. It’s not necessarily about luxury – it’s about convenience, friendliness and quality. Parking right outside is a plus, check-in should be quick, and breakfast doesn’t have to be extravagant – just good. Over the years, I have pictured my ideal hotel – and suddenly, with this opportunity in Uden, that vision has become reality.”
The perfect host
Two years ago, Pim, Marjolein and Saskia first took an interest in Villa Lieve Vrouwe. They viewed the property – which had been on the market for some time – and were impressed but unsure of what to do with it. Pim: “That changed when my sister Saskia was ready for a new challenge. With a background in hospitality, she immediately saw the potential of starting a hotel on this beautiful spot in her own hometown. We arranged another viewing – and suddenly, everything clicked into place. Before we knew it, we had a plan for a 16-room boutique hotel – with Saskia as manager and hostess.”
“Some people feel uneasy with the unknown. I thrive on new challenges – especially when they take real effort.”
Govers
Pim
A bonus for business relations
After securing all the necessary permits, the focus now shifts to renovating the historic building. A lot of work needs to be done – but Pim isn’t fazed. “I actually enjoy building something and then seeing the results. And it’s not just for me – our business relations will also benefit from this investment. In the future, when they visit, we can offer them a luxurious place to stay in our own hotel. This makes a visit to VAEX The Truck Traders even more special. And taking care of others aligns perfectly with our vision. We already provide a completely hassle-free experience when customers buy a truck. Now, we can also offer them a unique place to stay nearby.”
Entrepreneurship is thinking ahead
Pim sees the purchase of a hotel as a logical step in his career as an entrepreneur. “I’m always looking for opportunities – whether I’m on the road for work, in the office or even on holiday. Some of the plans make never come to life, but just thinking about them gives me energy. I just thrive on new challenges and always need something fresh to focus on. Starting a hotel fits perfectly into that picture – especially since this investment has no impact on our core business. That makes this project even more appealing, and it’s also my advice to other entrepreneurs: make sure your core business is solid, and invest in things that excite you. That way, you’ll never go wrong.”
“Our business relations will soon enjoy a luxury stay in our own hotel.”
Stay updated on Villa Lieve Vrouwe in Uden. Follow the latest news about the renovation and opening via LinkedIn or visit www.lievevrouwe.com.
Proud dealer of FINKL Fahrzeugbau for a custom-made livestock truck
For the construction of new livestock trucks, The Truck Traders is the place to go. Thanks to our roots in livestock trading, we know exactly what’s involved in such a project. We work closely with innovative manufacturers both domestically and internationally, and are the only FINKL dealer in the Benelux. That’s nothing but good news for you!
Why choose FINKL?
The most important feature of a livestock truck?
Ease of use! And in that regard, no vehicle surpasses a FINKL. The unladen weight of the vehicle is the foundation for the build, ensuring optimal payload capacity. You can also tailor the final result entirely to your wishes. 100% customisation, at an excellent price. It goes without saying that you’ll drive away with a high-quality, expertly finished product.
A smooth process
Since 2016, VAEX The Truck Traders has been an official dealer of FINKL bodywork. Livestock truck specialist Bas Willems bridges the distance between the Netherlands and Bissingen, where
Fahrzeugbau Josef Finkl is based. He listens to your specific requirements for the ideal build and makes the initial contact. Together, you reach the best possible agreement, after which the production process begins. The communication lines with Germany remain short – right up until your custom-built truck is gleaming and ready to hit the road. From that moment on, you can rely on service and maintenance in our Ravenstein workshop – nice and close to home!
Interested?
Each year, we make around 15 customers happy with a FINKL build – and that number is growing. Would you like to discuss the possibilities?
Contact Bas Willems via bas.willems@thetrucktraders.nl or +31 6 53 52 96 14.
The benefits of our FINKL dealership:
• A livestock truck tailored to your exact needs.
• Optimal price-quality ratio.
• Guidance throughout design and construction.
• Less work, time and effort for you.
• Service and maintenance in Ravenstein.
Bas Willems (left) and Josef FINKL (right)
NEW: NOW ALSO LOCATION RENTAL
A year ago, VAEX The Truck Traders launched a separate line of exclusive vehicles – Goverstone. Now, it’s time to share this unique collection with even more people. Goverstone is now available as a one-of-a-kind venue for meetings, networking events, training sessions and team activities.
Surrounded by nature
Tailor-made solutions
“Also a great addition: lunch, dinner, or a delicious snack platter from De Linde in Reek.”
Carefree gatherings
At Goverstone in Reek, you can elevate any meeting in our luxurious showroom, surrounded by exclusive trucks, sports cars and motorcycles. It’s the perfect setting for a team activity outside the office – a refreshing break from the daily grind. And the best part? You don’t have to think about a thing. We take care of all technical facilities, along with coffee, tea and optional snacks, lunch or dinner. There’s plenty of parking right outside, and during breaks, you can enjoy a lovely walk in the green surroundings of Reek.
Endless possibilities
Groups of 2 to 50 people can enjoy a wide range of activities at Goverstone – from networking drinks to meetings, and from cooking workshofps to training courses. There’s always a stylish space to suit your group size, with everything you need close at hand. Looking to add a culinary touch? Enjoy lunch or dinner at restaurant De Linde, just around the corner. We offer a variety of tailored packages for a fully catered experience.
THE ADVANTAGES OF GOVERSTONE
“Besides renting out our exclusive location, we also offer a unique collection of exclusive trucks, sports cars and motorcycles. Each vehicle tells its own story and is truly one of a kind. Discover more at www.goverstone.nl.”
BECAUSE ONE DAY, WE WILL ALL DRIVE A BUFFL
In 2017, the idea emerged to take trucks to the next level with custom interiors. Today, BUFFL has grown into a leading company for truck interiors and custom builds, with a team of 27 customizers, two modern workshops and streamlined production lines. How did that growth happen? Like this!
just start
Marjolein: “Pim had been working on truck interiors in Romania for a while, but there was no concrete plan. Then, I returned from my summer holiday to find three men on the doorstep – the first employees of the newly established VAEX Truck Customs, ready to start immediately in Reek. ‘Marjolein, can you sort that out?’ It caught me off guard, but luckily, I can adapt quickly. And that mindset fits perfectly with our vision: the best things happen by simply getting started.”
2019
A new name
Pim: “After two years of hard work, our interior division became increasingly popular. But the name VAEX Truck Customs sometimes worked against us – not every driver wanted to drive around with VAEX branding on their truck. We also felt that our brand deserved its own name to create an even stronger identity. That’s how BUFFL was born – inspired by the buffalo, a powerful leader. Appropriate, if you ask me.”
Pioneering in Reek
Renske: “I joined VAEX Truck Customs in Reek as an operational employee. My role? Handling everything that would otherwise be left undone – from administrative work to tidying the warehouse and even organising birthday gifts. Some of it was quite simple, but all of it was important. My office was also my colleague’s bedroom, as he stayed in Reek during the week. You can't imagine that now!”
Step by step forward
Robby: “In the beginning, we had one toolbox for the whole team, and our workshop in Reek could only fit two trucks at a time. Upstairs, there was a small loft where the sewing machine was kept – it reached 40°C in the summer, and in the winter, water leaked through the roof. Step by step, we grew alongside our workload –acquiring more and better tools, building a second hall, and constantly striving for higher quality.”
Learning from mistakes Quality first 2020 2022 2021 2023
Dustin: “The strength of our team is that we all want to create great things together. Of course, things went wrong in the early days. Due to poor planning, we once worked on a single truck from 5am to 10pm just to get it finished on time. Another time, after a customer complained about the electrical wiring, I opened the dashboard – and I almost cried. The wiring was that bad. But those mistakes pushed us forward. Sometimes, things have to go wrong before you can get better.”
Paul: “What we create is a reflection of who we are. Every interior and build we deliver has to be top quality. Full stop. That all comes down to well-organised internal processes – and clear communication with both customers and employees. We've made significant progress in both areas over the past few years. By listening, checking, discussing and giving feedback, you can prevent problems. And every project feels like a shared responsibility. The result? The quality at BUFFL is spot on!”
Interested in custom BUFFL interior or exterior? Paul Jordens paul.jordens@buffl.nl +31 6 45 38 79 59
Move to Ravenstein
Kevin: “When I joined BUFFL, the move from Reek to Ravenstein had just been completed. Customers loved having everything for their truck under one roof. The new location was spacious and modern, and everyone worked incredibly hard – but in some areas, there was a lack of oversight. That’s why I focused on clear role divisions, setting shared goals, and creating better insights through automation. Some people left, new colleagues joined – and the result? A motivated team and steady growth.”
2024
BUFFL is everywhere
Pim: “It often happens that I open the door of a truck while purchasing and see a BUFFL interior. For me, that’s proof that BUFFL is a well established name in the industry – a renowned, top-tier brand. Whether you like the design is a matter of taste, but the quality is undeniable. In general, it takes about five years to establish a business – and we’ve passed that milestone. BUFFL is mature and stronger than ever!”
Harm Bloemert on BUFFL
Harm Bloemert is the managing director and owner of ATS Transport and Logistics in Staphorst. Since 2022, he has entrusted BUFFL with eight of his trucks. This time, the cabin of his 2008 Scania R2 received a fresh new look.
“I was surprised by the designer’s creativity and great ideas.”
Step 1: Appointment
Harm: “I called on Monday and was sitting at the table in Ravenstein that same week. There, I shared my wishes with Paul, the commercial team leader. It had to be a complete makeover – a new floor, fresh leather on the steering wheel, dashboard and upper bed, reupholstered seats, side panels, headliner and door panels.” In warm brown tones, including a brand-new audio system, a V8 logo and atmospheric melon lights for an authentic feel.”
Step 2: The design
Harm: “To bring my ideas to life, Paul brought in truck customizer and designer Dustin. He surprised me with new suggestions, which made me even more enthusiastic. With extra inspiration from the digital photo gallery, made my final choices – and within three minutes, Dustin sketched it out on paper. Combined with a digital design, this gives a clear picture of the final result in advance.”
Step 3: The quote
Harm: “At BUFFL, you receive a quote within three working days after the appointment. But in this case, I called back the next day to have few tufted panels in the design changed to stitched sections. Paul noted this final adjustment and shortly after, I received the updated quote in my inbox. With a digital signature, the order was finalised – clear for both parties.”
Step 4: The planning
Harm: “The original plan was to customise my truck after the summer holidays, but due to a shift in BUFFL’s schedule, was able to bring it in earlier. It was great that we were both flexible at that moment. Fortunately, materials weren’t an issue – everything was in stock. Only the V8 logo had to be ordered urgently, but that was quickly sorted.”
“I have high standards. But BUFFL’s quality has never disappointed.”
Step 5: The process
Harm: “When dropped off my Scania, an employee filled in a check-in form and took photos – a clear sign that BUFFL would handle my truck with care. I was without it for about 10 days, exactly as BUFFL had estimated. Along the way, I received WhatsApp messages with any issues the mechanics can across during the customisation. A quick discussion, alignment, and back to work. I really value that kind of direct communication.”
Step 6: The delivery
Harm: “Two days before my truck was ready, we agreed on the handover time. When arrived in Ravenstein on the day itself, my Scania was in perfect condition. It’s always exciting to open the door and see your new interior for the first time. Once again, the result exceeded expectations –every detail was executed flawlessly. Paul and I wrapped things up over a cup of coffee while I signed the check-out form. Here’s to many great miles in my newest BUFFL!”
“ The straightforward and smooth communication at BUFFL suits me.”
“At VAEX The Truck Traders, you find the perfect truck. At BUFFL, we make it truly yours – with a custom interior, a bold exterior build, and a fresh wash.”
“Good results start with motivated people.”
Meet Kevin and his view on BUFFL
"Providing opportunities to those who dare to seize them – that’s how it all started three years ago. BUFFL was looking for an experienced leader with knowledge of the truck industry. Kevin was ready for the next step in his career. A perfect match to build on!"
Surprised by BUFFL
"In early 2022, Kevin started talking with BUFFL. He was actually happy with his employer at the time, but the prospect of a new challenge intrigued him –especially the opportunity to become a shareholder in the future." Kevin: “Part of me had always regretted never starting my own business. But at a certain point, you just don’t take that step anymore. The opportunity BUFFL offered me hit the mark – it meant taking real final responsibility.”
“ The fact that they gave me this opportunity says a lot about the company.”
On top of that, Kevin was pleasantly surprised by BUFFL’s location, materials and approach. “I knew the company from social media, but I was genuinely amazed by its size and professional approach when I first walked in. The environment and the people immediately gave me confidence.” More conversations followed, leading to a concrete plan – Kevin would be employed at BUFFL for a year, with the option to become a shareholder if it felt right for both sides.
It starts with people
Kevin: “What I was most curious about was how the team would receive me. I was bringing change – and not everyone was looking forward to that. That’s why deliberately took a calm approach. I took the time to understand how things worked and what could be improved, but most importantly, I wanted people to realise for themselves that change was needed. You can say, ‘I think this should be different and I’m the boss!’ But I believe in an approach where everyone shares the same goal and is just as invested as I am. It takes longer, but in the end, it achieves more.”
That approach paid off. Some team members moved on, and new colleagues joined. Clear goals and role divisions led to growth in revenue and brand awareness. And, just as importantly, Kevin, the management team, and the rest of the team were the perfect fit. With all the right reasons in place, on 1 January 2024, Kevin officially became co-owner of BUFFL – alongside Pim Govers and Marjolein Waals. Kevin: “Thanks to the careful preparation, we were all 100% committed to taking this step.”
A look ahead
Kevin has now been the director of BUFFL for over a year. He remains grounded when talking about his new role: “I still behave the same as before. The only difference is that I feel an even stronger drive to solve problems. It’s my job to ensure that nothing gets left unfinished, spirals out of control, or gets lost in the organisation. Beyond that, I just want to continue building with the great team we have. Making sure my colleagues enjoy coming to work as much as I do – and that as many customers as possible leave our premises with a big smile.”
“It’s time for even more people to discover who we are.”
Over the past year, significant progress has been made, and Kevin is proud of his team: “We’ve all worked incredibly hard. As a result, we now build more smoothly, efficiently and to an even higher standard than before. Now it’s time to reap the benefits of all these improvements. We’re ready for even more customers and driven to grow. We’re also open to welcoming new team members who want to contribute to our success. More people should see what we do and what we’re capable of at BUFFL – I know many will be just as surprised as was in the beginning. So, drop by sometime. It’s definitely worth it!”
Over 50 years of experience in the workshop
“ IF IT'S GOOD, WHY WOULD YOU LEAVE?”
Skilled mechanics are in high demand everywhere, which makes it even more special that Marco, Stijn and Jarec have been with VAEX for so long. Together, they bring 50 years of experience to the workshop. And as for leaving? They don’t even want to think about it!
Marco - 60 years old
With VAEX since 2000
“I was working at a bodybuilder, where Pim would come for the VAEX Livestock trucks. One day, he shared his plans to start his own workshop and invited me for a coffee. I made the move to Reek, where I single-handedly maintained all 19 livestock trucks in a former caravan storage that had been converted into a garage. It was a great time –a period of hard work, getting calls in the middle of the night when a truck broke down with a flat tyre or when the drinking water systems weren’t working. We worked with a real family spirit, tackling everything together.”
“When VAEX The Truck Traders came into the picture and the company grew, that family culture faded slightly. But the atmosphere among colleagues is still great, and the work remains interesting and challenging. If something on a truck is broken, I want to fix it. I’ll even lie in bed at night thinking about the best way to do it. Repairs on the latest Scanias, for example, can be quite a challenge. So much is locked down in those computer systems that you have to get creative to find a solution. It’s a great feeling when you manage to sort it out. Even after 25 years, still head to workwhistling every day!”
Colleagues about Marco
“Marco is a walking truck encyclopaedia. There’s no one who knows as much about truck technology. And he’s always happy to share that knowledge with others.”
Jarec – 62 years old
With VAEX since 2007
“Seventeen years ago, I came to VAEX from Poland through an employment agency – initially to help with the construction of the new office building in Reek. But once that was finished, Pim asked if I’d like to work in the workshop. I had no experience as a mechanic, but I paid close attention and asked questions from the start. That’s how I learned to weld aluminium and steel, for example. Now, I handle all kinds of repairs in the workshop, help out in the wash bay, and I’m still called in whenever there’s construction or renovation work to be done – plenty of variety, which I really enjoy!
“Respect is very important to me, and from day one, was treated as an equal colleague – both on the shop floor and beyond. The management has even helped me multiple times in finding a suitable home for my wife and me. And most of my colleagues truly appreciate the knowledge and experience I’ve built up over the years. In return, take on every task, keep learning every day, and have fun at work. I’ll definitely stay here until I retire!”
Colleagues about Jarec
“Jarec tackles everything with a smile. He observes, learns and gets the job done. In his work, he shows great respect for both his colleagues and the materials he works with.”
Stijn – 43 years old
With VAEX since 2013
“After applying at VAEX, I was initially rejected because I didn’t have the right qualifications as a mechanic. Fortunately, the workshop manager at the time ensured that I was hired anyway. That was over eleven years ago. Since then, I’ve held various roles – from mechanic to warehouse foreman and workshop manager. In that last role, I helped further develop the workshop in Ravenstein. Today, I’m the facilities manager for all the buildings, and I really enjoy the freedom that comes with it!
The workshop now is nothing like it was eleven years ago – it’s much more modern, structured and organised. I still remember when we all had to share a single toolbox. Now, everything is perfectly in order, and we have a strong team in place. I love this kind of family business – accessible and down-to-earth, with people who treat each other with respect. Of course, there’s sometimes feedback from management, but they’re always there for you when you need them. That makes for a great working environment. It feels good here, so I have no reason to leave.”
Colleagues
about Stijn
“Stijn is a great guy –always there, always ready to help. He embodies the VAEX spirit – and that’s something you just can’t buy. You either have it, or you don’t.”
YOUR BUFFL STARTS HERE EVERYTHING
Upholstered back wall
Give your cabin an instant style upgrade with an upholstered back wall. Flat or tufted –designed to your taste. Custom details – add an Illuminated company logo and make a real impression. Your cabin deserves it!
Curtains
Need privacy and comfort on the road?
Double-stitched fabric blocks sunlight for better sleep. Available in multiple colours to match your interior. Practical, stylish & easy to install.
Upholstered floor
Wear-resistant, durable and custom-made. Our fully carpeted floors offer protection and give your cabin a stylish look. Non-slip, easy to clean and resistant to heavy use.
Upholstered door panels
Style is in the details. With upholstered door panels, you complete your cabin and create a warm, stylish look. Go for flat or tufted in a colour that perfectly matches the rest of your interior. Made from durable, high-quality faux leather for long-lasting use.
Upholstered seats
You spend countless hours behind the wheel –so make sure you're comfortable. An upholstered seat not only provides support but also instantly upgrades your cabin. Choose from premium leather in various colours and add a custom logo if desired.
Chair frame plates
Small detail, big impact. BUFFL's chair frame plates add that extra touch of style to your interior. Optional lighting ensures they match your custom look. Because, of course, you’re proud of your BUFFL – and you want to show it.
Of course, we do much more – from steering wheel covers to a fully customised interior – finished with buttons, logos, stitching and ambient LED lighting. Find more info and inspiration at www.buffl.nl. Or shop directly online:
“With a BUFFL exterior, you're guaranteed envious looks on the road.”
